Epic Games is shaking things up in the mobile gaming world by launching its own mobile store*, bringing Fortnite and Fall Guys directly to iOS and Android users. This move is more than just a new way to download games—it’s a statement. For years, gamers and developers alike have been locked into the ecosystems of Apple’s App Store and Google Play, where hefty fees and rigid rules have often stifled creativity and profit. But now, Epic is stepping in with an alternative that could change the game.
Announced on August 16, 2024, the Epic Games Mobile Store is designed with the same rebellious spirit that has defined the company’s approach to gaming. Remember when Fortnite was pulled from the App Store because Epic refused to play by Apple’s rules? This new store feels like the culmination of that battle—a way for Epic to offer games on its terms, and give players more freedom in how they access their favorite titles.
For developers, this new platform is a breath of fresh air. Instead of losing 30% of their revenue to the big tech giants, they’ll get to keep more of what they earn, allowing for more innovation and creativity in the games they make. Epic’s store is also carefully curated, offering a selection of games that have been chosen for their quality and uniqueness. It’s not just about throwing a bunch of games at users and seeing what sticks; it’s about creating a space where gamers can discover new favorites without wading through endless options.
The store launches with heavy hitters like Fortnite and Fall Guys, but this is just the beginning. Epic plans to grow its library, including both blockbuster games and indie gems, making sure there’s something for everyone. And for gamers, this means more choices and potentially a better experience, with early access to new releases and exclusive content that you won’t find anywhere else.
Epic’s move into mobile is about more than just creating another storefront. It’s about challenging the status quo and offering an alternative that puts both gamers and developers first. In a world where the biggest players often hold all the cards, Epic is betting that there’s room for a different kind of game—a game where everyone has a fair shot at winning.
Mobile and portable gaming (e.g. Steam Deck etc.) has been steadily picking up steam (pun possibly intended) over the past couple years. With mobile devices becoming more and more capable of running AAA games on device, it does pose a dilemma for the Cloud Gaming ecosystem – is Cloud Gaming necessary when AAA games can be installed locally on phones (plus tablets and other handhelds). We tend to think the technologies are complementary here at Cloud Dosage, but it’ll be something to watch over the upcoming years. Fortnite’s lack of iOS support had definitely been one of the major reasons for people to try cloud gaming for the first time.
*The Epic Games app is only available in the EU, with a rapid global expansion expected soon.
